The Pros and Cons of Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps

Increasingly, ductless heating and cooling systems are gaining popularity in the U.S. and around the world. They offer an energy-efficient and convenient way to condition part or all of a home, with much less energy waste than occurs in central forced-air HVAC systems.

What Is a Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump?

When it comes to HVAC technology, ductless systems work similarly to common air-source heat pumps. They come with an outdoor compressor/condenser unit that’s connected to an indoor air handler or multiple indoor air-handling units with a conduit containing refrigerant and electrical lines. For heating, the mini-split transfers heat energy from outside to inside for heating, and vice versa for cooling, using refrigerant running through lines and coils.

Similarities with standard forced-air heat pumps and A/Cs end when it comes to air distribution. The ductless mini-split distributes heated or cooled air directly into the room where the air-handling unit is located, rather than through a network of ducts. For conditioning more than one room, homeowners have the option of installing multiple air handling units.

Advantages

A ductless system experiences none of the energy waste that occurs when ducts leak or heat transfers through thin duct walls in forced-air systems. Mini-splits also offer independent, zoned heating and cooling. If you don’t want to condition a particular room, you can turn off the air handler serving that area. Ductless mini-splits offer a variety of installation options that can work with your indoor decor. Finally, they come with high efficiency ratings for both cooling and heating.

Disadvantages

A ductless mini-split system may be more expensive than a standard heat pump system and may not be the best option for a home with ductwork installed. Otherwise, any minuses that ductless systems experience are common in regular heat pumps, such as struggling to provide comfortable heat in very cold temperatures.

Learn more about ductless mini-split heat pumps for your Jacksonville area home or contact the pros at Mike Merritt Heating & Air Conditioning at 904-240-4038.

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